Germany-Based Cameroonian Murdered Over Land Dispute in Limbe, Sparking Outrage

Protus, a dual resident of Germany and Cameroon, had returned home to invest in real estate development in Kie Village, near Limbe. He was found dead earlier this week, allegedly killed by his construction foreman, identified as George, in a plot involving multiple accomplices. The murder occurred Monday, police said.

According to investigators, George lured Protus to the disputed property under the pretext of meeting potential buyers. Once at the site, Protus was attacked with a hammer and restrained, then decapitated and buried in a grave that had been dug earlier that morning by an unwitting laborer.

The murder came to light after Protus' German wife reported him missing, prompting Cameroonian authorities to issue a region-wide alert. George was apprehended after a botched attempt to sell Protus’ vehicle in Douala. He led police to the crime scene and the accomplices, who have since been detained.

This killing has sparked outrage among Cameroonian communities in Essen and across Germany, who described Protus as a “big brother” figure and a pillar of support for other returnees seeking to contribute to development back home. Social media platforms were flooded with tributes and calls for justice.

Local security forces have condemned the incident as part of a growing trend of land disputes and violent crime targeting returning diaspora members. “This is a tragic reminder of the dangers faced by Cameroonians investing back home,” said a Limbe-based human rights advocate. “There must be tighter security and community vigilance.”

The case has heightened fears among Central Africans in the diaspora who wish to repatriate and invest in their countries of origin. Analysts warn it could further erode trust in local systems of land tenure and protection for returnees.

Police in Southwest Region continue their investigation. The suspects are expected to be formally charged with premeditated murder and conspiracy.